I'm obsessed with my therapist, but I'm not in love with him (although I do *love* him). It's mostly paternal transference.

I've experienced paternal transference outside of therapy, and, in those situations, I've become obsessed with the person as well. I'm glad I have my therapist because he's a safe person for me to have these feelings for. In real life with other people, experiencing that kind of transference can be quite risky. Suddenly you are a child and they are the parent you're trying to get something from (love, attention, approval, etc.). It creates this power imbalance that can be used against you...